Liza; Or, "A Nest of Nobles" (eBook)

Ivan Sergeevich Turgenev (1818–1883) was a seminal Russian novelist, playwright, and short story writer, renowned for his profound contributions to Russian literature and for his insightful depiction of social and psychological issues of his time. Born into a noble family at Oryol, Turgenev was deeply influenced by the liberal ideas and the intricate complexity of Russian society, which he masterfully reflected in his literary works. His education at the universities of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Berlin equipped him with a broad intellectual background and a European perspective, which he wove into his narratives. Turgenev first achieved literary acclaim with 'A Sportsman's Sketches' (1852), a collection that illuminates the injustices of serfdom and contributed to its eventual abolition in Russia. His novel 'Liza; Or, "A Nest of Nobles"' (1859), also known as 'Home of the Gentry', is one of his most celebrated works, showcasing his eloquent portrayal of the Russian aristocracy and its decline. Turgenev's literary style combines poetic realism with deeply lyrical and evocative prose, weaving intricate character development with social commentary. His narrative voice, often melancholic and contemplative, reflects the personal and societal conflicts of 19th-century Russia, marking him as a key figure in the transition from Russian Romanticism to Realism. Turgenev's influence reached beyond Russia, as he gained considerable recognition in the Western literary world, striking friendships with notable contemporaries such as Gustave Flaubert and Henry James.